We all know that Aromatherapy is a holistic healing treatment that has been used for centuries, that uses natural plant extracts to promote health and well-being. Aromatherapy uses aromatic essential oils medicinally to improve the health of the body, mind, and spirit. Studies suggest that it enhances both physical and emotional health.
Aromatherapy is thought of as both an art and a science and more recently has gained more recognition in the fields of science and medicine.
This is why ( 5 years ago) I started to study the connections between fragrance and their calming benefits. To be completely truthful, it came from a place of utter desperation. At that time, Archie was full of anxiety and we had no idea where to turn. The NHS waiting list for mental health support was weeks away and we were fearful for his well being.
My research lead me to discover that there are a number of fragrances that parents and carers found beneficial and for us, it was a gamechanger! Since that day, we have had either a wax warmer or diffuser both upstairs and down ( one placed as close to Archie’s room as possible ) and we have not looked back.
For your quick refence, here is a list of scents that are believed to support a child with ADHD although remember, EVERY child is different and it has to be a bit of a trial and error situation to find the scent that works for you 🙂
Vetiver
Vetiver oil comes from a plant native to India called vetiver. It’s said to have a calming effect and may even help stimulate circulation and relieve symptoms of stress and anxiety.
Lavender
Lavender has been used for hundreds of years to reduce anxiety.
The aroma of lavender can reduce anxiety and help calm people in stressful situations, which may help with ADHD symptoms.
Orange – One of our most successful 🙂
Orange oil is derived from the rinds of the sweet orange.
Studies suggest that orange essential oil could reduce anxiety and create calm in individuals in a stressful environment. We have found this to be true for one of our boys 🙂
Chamomile and ylang ylang
Chamomile oil comes from the flowers of the chamomile plant, while ylang ylang oil is derived from the flowers of the tropical Cananga tree.
The stress, anxiety, and depression felt by some with ADHD may be helped by Ylang Ylang and chamomile oils. Both of these essential oils may also have the ability to calm, reduce anxiety, and possibly even help with some forms of depression.
Sandalwood- Archie’s favourite and in daily use in our home.
Sandalwood oil comes from the wood and roots of Santalum album, which is also known as the East Indian sandalwood tree. And finally…
Peppermint
Peppermint oil comes from the flowering part as well as the leaves of the peppermint plant.
It’s believed to have a soothing effect. It can help relax and calm the restlessness.
For us personally, Sandlewood ( deep earthy scent ),any citrus scents and any mint based fragrances have positive effects of our children.
I hope this has been useful to you as we start back for another school year.
If you are interested in purchasing any warmers to have a go yourself, here is a link to my Scentsy store and I am always happy to help and advise x
